Eric Garner

About

In 2014, after being placed in a chokehold by New York City police officer Daniel Pantaleo, this African American city park horticulturist went into cardiac arrest and passed away. His death, which was ruled a homicide, spurred nation-wide protest and dialogue on the topics of police brutality and racial profiling.

Before Fame

Prior to being approached by police on July 17, 2014, he had been arrested for both marijuana possession and the sale of untaxed cigarettes.

Trivia

His asthma and weight may have been contributing factors in his death; the illegally-administered chokehold was determined by medical examiners to be the main cause of Garner's fatal heart attack.

Family Life

He was the father of six children and was described by friends and neighbors as an exceptionally kind and generous man.

Associated With

Following Garner's death, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio held a Summer, 2014 roundtable discussion with local politicians and police officers.